Mediator Effect of Work Overload Between Fear of Future Violence at Work and Turnover Intention in Nurses

Int J Nurs Pract. 2026;32(2):e70145. doi: 10.1111/ijn.70145.

ABSTRACT

AIM: Increasing rates of violence among healthcare workers contribute to increased fear of future violence, which consequently affects turnover intention. This study aimed to elucidate the mediating role of work overload on the relationship between fear of future violence at work and turnover intention in nurses.

METHODS: This explanatory cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 124 nurses employed at a public hospital. Data were collected using a self-administered survey that included a Personal Information Form, the Fear of Future Violent Events at Work Scale, the Work Overload Scale and the Turnover Intention Scale. Mediation analysis was performed using the PROCESS macro (Model 4) for SPSS with bootstrapping procedures to test indirect effects.

RESULTS: Results indicated a significant positive relationship between fear of future violence and work overload, as well as between work overload and turnover intention. While the total effect of fear of future violence on turnover intention was significant, the direct effect was not. Work overload significantly mediated the relationship between fear of future violence and turnover intention.

CONCLUSION: The fear of future violence at work statistically significantly contributes to perceived increased workload, subsequently escalating the likelihood of turnover. These insights highlight the necessity for nursing policy interventions that aim to reduce work overload and address concerns related to future workplace violence. Creation of safer work environments may mitigate turnover intentions among nurses.

PMID:42026864 | DOI:10.1111/ijn.70145